Res Gestae
Was he? Is he? Or will he be?
I would have chosen either "Meaningless" or "Misnomer" for a title of this article. But, pondering on the intention of the proponent of the streamer screaming with "LEX TUPAS: Tingog sang Kabataan/Pamatan-on", I opted for a title that gives the person concerned the benefit of the doubt that he is. So the title goes.
The Commission on Election 6 does not consider the streamers as "electioneering" by the fact the Lex is yet to file his Certificate of Candidacy, if he is indeed seeking a post in the Iloilo City Council. Also, because the streamer is as "safe" as the "Gonzales Country" does.
But, it is not really my concern whether the Iloilo Governor's son is running for City Councilor or not. The message is!
"Tingog sang Kabataan/Pamatan-on" or "Voice of the Youth"is a message declaring that person whom the title refers to "best represent the interest of the youth" at least of the Ilonggos. And, that puts a big question mark on Lex's streamer.
"Lex Tupas: Tingog sang Kabataan/Pamatan-on" can be interpreted in several ways, considering the elements of time: Past, present and future! Was he? Is he? Or Will he be?
I've heard Lex Tupas' name early last year. I thought, he was then having a debut and, as a son of the embattled Governor of the Province of Iloilo, it was time for him to be introduced to the public. But, of course, at the back of my mind, I was already then seeing a political angle on the emergence of his name in the public consciousness.
Calling Lex Tupas as "Tingog sang Kabataan/Pamatan-on" is a grave injustice! Of course, not to Lex but to the title! "Voice of the Youth" is too promising to be equated with Lex Tupas. I have this contention not primarily because I don't know Lex so well; it would not surely suffice for him to earn the title! It only sounds very ambitious of him! Is is not?
I may sound unfair to despise Lex because he chooses to stand for the youth! The truth is I always admire people who cling on Rizal's "The youth is the hope of the fatherland." It is so because it gives me.. us.. hope in this seemingly hopeless government!
It's too early to tell that Lex will seek for election as Iloilo City Councilor. But, it is better to establish early that it would not fit him the title "Tingog sang Kabataan/Pamatan-on" once he decides to venture a political career in this City. What does he think of Jamjam? Laos na!
I would be happy knowing that Lex is running this election. At least, I would be happy knowing whether there is a difference among voters in Iloilo City and Iloilo Province!
(Send your comments and suggestions to rogatepnp@yahoo.com)